Identify the three broad categories of inhalants.

Identify the three broad categories of inhalants.

• A. Solvents, aerosols, and gases and nitrites.
• B. Solvents, aerosols, and esters.
• C. Solvents, aerosols, and vitamins.
• D. Solvents, aerosols, and gases/nitrites.

Answer: (B)

Inhalants are grouped by the form and source of the substance that is inhaled. The main broad categories are solvents, aerosols, and gases (with nitrites often considered part of the gas category). Solvents are liquids that vaporize, like glue or paint thinners. Aerosols are sprays, such as deodorants or spray paints. Gases include propellants and other gaseous inhalants, including nitrous oxide and alkyl nitrites in many curricula. This is why the best choice lists solvents, aerosols, and gases/nitrites: it captures the standard three broad groups and acknowledges nitrites as part of the gas category. Esters aren’t treated as a standalone broad category, and vitamins are not inhalants.

Inhalants are grouped by the form and source of the substance that is inhaled. The main broad categories are solvents, aerosols, and gases (with nitrites often considered part of the gas category). Solvents are liquids that vaporize, like glue or paint thinners. Aerosols are sprays, such as deodorants or spray paints. Gases include propellants and other gaseous inhalants, including nitrous oxide and alkyl nitrites in many curricula.

This is why the best choice lists solvents, aerosols, and gases/nitrites: it captures the standard three broad groups and acknowledges nitrites as part of the gas category. Esters aren’t treated as a standalone broad category, and vitamins are not inhalants.